5. Gastrointestinal Grumbles: Digestive Disruptions in the World of Sjogren’s
While Sjogren’s often lays its claim on the eyes and mouth, its influence isn’t limited to these areas. Dive deeper into the system, and you’ll find that even the digestive tract isn’t spared from its grasp.
The salivary glands’ reduced function doesn’t just impact oral health; it marks the beginning of a digestive cascade that’s less than optimal. Without sufficient saliva, the initial breakdown of food, especially carbohydrates, faces disruption.
But the saga doesn’t end there. The stomach, in some with Sjogren’s, might produce fewer acids. This may sound beneficial at first, considering the demonization of stomach acids in pop culture. However, these acids have a pivotal role in digestion, and their decreased levels can lead to bloating or feelings of fullness.(5)
